The 12th Sanggunian Panlalawigan commenced its inaugural session on July 7, under the leadership of Vice Governor Eufemia Ang- Dacayo, who presided over the proceedings. This session marked the beginning of a new legislative term, focusing on the organization and leadership of the council’s various committees.

According to SP Secretary Dominic Ruam, four newly reinstated standing committees have been established: the Committee on Population and Physical Development, Committee on Livelihood, Committee on Human Resources and Development, and Committee on OFW Affairs. These committees, previously part of other groups, have now been designated as independent committees to enhance their focus and effectiveness.

During the session, Bambang Municipal Councilor Alexander Calulot Jr. took his oath as interim president of the Philippine Councilors League, a position he will hold until new elections are conducted. A blessing ceremony was also held in the session hall and the offices of the board members, symbolizing a fresh start.Key appointments to the committees were announced, with responsibilities distributed among the board members as follows:

• BM Primo Percival Marcos will chair the Committee on Rules, Privileges, and Awards, the Committee on Ways and Means, and the Committee on Labor and Employment.

• BM Eunice Galima Gambol will lead the Committee on Appropriations, Budget, and Finance; the Committee on Tourism, Culture, and Arts; and the Committee on Elderly and Persons with Special Abilities and Social Welfare. Notably, BM Eunice Galima Gambol was also elected as the Floor Leader, marking the first time that the Floor Leader is not the chair of the Committee on Rules.

• BM Wilson Salas will head the Committee on Agriculture and Agrarian Reform and the Committee on Housing and Land Use Development.

• BM Atty John Severino G Bagasao will oversee the Committee on Legal Affairs, Justice, and Human Rights, as well as the Committee on Transportation, Communication, and Public Utilities.

• BM Atty Castillo Tidang Jr is responsible for the Committee on Environmental Protection, Natural Resources, and Climate Change, and the Committee on Indigenous Peoples and Cultural Communities.

• BM Flodemonte S Gerdan chairs the Committee on Education, the Committee on Infrastructure and Physical Development, the Committee on OFWs, and the Committee on Peace and Order, Public Safety, and Risk Reduction Management.

• BM Leonard Clemens Cadoy will lead the Committee on Human Resources Development and the Committee on Good Governance, Ethics, and Spiritual Affairs. • BM Leah Tidang is in charge of the Committee on Trade, Commerce, Industry, and Cooperatives, and the Committee on Livelihood.

• BM LC Cuaresma will chair the Committee on Health and the Committee on Population and Physical Development.

• BM EJ Martinez chairs the Committee on Women, Children, Family Relations, the Committee on Accreditation, NGOs and POs, Linkages and External Affairs, and the Oversight Committee.

• BM Pablo Kindot will oversee the Committee on General Services and the Committee on Energy.

• BM Alexander Calulot will manage the Committee on Municipal Affairs.

• BM John Babliing will focus on the Committee on Barangay Affairs.

• BM Nixon Millo will lead the Committee on Youth Affairs, Scouting, and Sports Development.

The Special Oversight Committe to be chaired by BM EJ Martinez, will play a crucial role in monitoring the implementation of resolutions and ordinances passed by the council, ensuring that legislative measures are effectively executed.

The session set the legislative agenda for the term, focusing on key areas such as infrastructure, education, healthcare, and economic development. Vice Governor Dacayo and the members of the 12th Sanggunian are committed to supporting Governor Jose V. Gambito’s administration by implementing initiatives that enhance community welfare and promote sustainable growth throughout the province. /RMI

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